Financial Aid

Frequently Asked Questions


Don’t know where to start? Check out these FAQs to get you on your way.


How do I apply for financial aid?

Undergraduate students:
For the 2013-2014 academic year: Fill out a 2013-2014 CSS PROFILE and the FAFSA. You can apply online http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/ and http://profileonline.collegeboard.com/index.jsp. We also require a copy of parents' and student's 2012 federal income tax returns, all pages and W-2 forms. For more information visit the Apply for Aid page.

St. John's school codes:

  • PROFILE: Annapolis=5598; Santa Fe=4737
  • FAFSA: Annapolis=002092; Santa Fe=002093


How long does the process take?

Normally, about 2 to 4 weeks. You should apply as early as possible. The PROFILE is available October 1; the FAFSA may be filed after January 1.

I'm not going to qualify for need-based aid. Should I still fill out the FAFSA?

If you are not sure whether you qualify, it’s best to file.  Financial aid includes grants, scholarships, work, and loans. You may not qualify for need-based grants, but student loans are always obtainable and the forms are necessary for government loans.

What is merit aid? How do I know if I am eligible?

All students entering as freshmen in Fall 2013 or for the January Freshman class in January 2013 are eligible for merit scholarships regardless of their family income. Merit scholarships are awarded based on academic promise, as shown through your high school record, application essays, and other criteria including test scores. A separate application is not required for merit aid. St. John’s offers two types of merit scholarships: Trustee Scholarships and Key Scholarships. The amounts of the award vary.

What is a Student Aid Report, and what should I do with it?

You will receive a Student Aid Report (SAR) from the Department of Education after they process your FAFSA. Please check the messages on it, as some conditions may prevent you from receiving aid until they are resolved. DO NOT THROW AWAY YOUR SAR. KEEP IT FOR YOUR RECORDS.

What is an award letter?

An award letter is the school's offer of Federal, State, and Institutional financial aid.  If you have been awarded merit aid, it will show that as well.

When will I receive my award letter?

First and foremost, make sure you have turned in your FAFSA and the CSS PROFILE if you would like to be considered for need-based aid. With either of these documents missing, the college cannot complete your award. Generally award letters, including those for merit aid, are sent after you receive notice about acceptance at the college (see Timeline and Deadlines).  Returning students should expect their awards once their file has been completed. If you need to know what we still need, please contact our office.

I haven't received my award letter yet. What should I do?

Don't panic. Contact the Financial Aid office to check the status.

What is the difference between the Treasurer's Office (Business Office) and the Financial Aid Office? How about the Admissions Office?

The Financial Aid Office reviews financial aid applications and determines students’ awards. The Treasurer's Office bills tuition, fees, and other institutional charges. Any information about billing or account balances needs to be directed to the Treasurer's Office. The Admissions Office handles all aspects of your application for admission, which is considered apart from your financial aid status.

I've been awarded work study. What does that mean?

Work study is a state or federally funded employment program. You are awarded a dollar amount to earn and this amount will appear on your award letter. Jobs are limited and filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Funds earned will be received through a paycheck, not posted to your billing account. Receiving a work award does not guarantee an on-campus position. Please complete the Campus Employment Application if you are interested in a position.

What is verification?

By law, the US Department of Education randomly selects 30% of all St. John's students who file a FAFSA for verification of the information in the financial aid applications.  It is the responsibility of the Financial Aid Office to collect necessary financial documentation and verify the accuracy of the listed information. The financial Aid office will contact you after the FAFSA and PROFILE have been received to let you know what other documentation is needed. You must turn in all financial documentation requests before your loans are processed and your account credited with financial aid. 

What does "need-based aid" mean? What is "need"?

"Need" is determined by using this formula: Cost of Attendance (COA) - Expected Family Contribution (EFC) = Financial Need.

Cost of Attendance includes tuition, fees, books, supplies, transportation, room and board, and miscellaneous costs. The Expected Family Contribution number is derived from the information you provided on the FAFSA and CSS PROFILE. This is the amount that can reasonably be expected from your family as contribution toward educational expenses. If you subtract your EFC from the school’s COA and you end up with a positive number, then you have "financial need" (or "need"). If you end up with a negative number, then you do not demonstrate "financial need." You will receive "need based aid" if you demonstrate financial "need." St. John’s is committed to meeting 100% of demonstrated need through a combination of grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study.
 
All students are eligible for merit aid scholarships, regardless of whether they demonstrate need or not.

Where can I get information on tax benefits for higher education like the Hope Scholarship or Lifetime Learning Credit?

Information on tax benefits for higher education can be found at The Hope Scholarship and Lifetime Learning Credits or contact your tax accountant. Financial Aid Office cannot counsel students or parents on how to prepare their taxes.

Who can I contact with other questions?

If you have further questions, contact the Financial Aid office.